A U.S. federal judge has postponed the sentencing of Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada, a notorious Mexican drug trafficker, to April 13, 2026. This decision was made following a request from Zambada’s defense attorney, Frank Pérez. The original sentencing was set for January 13, 2026.
Details of the Postponement
The judge, Brian Cogan, agreed to extend the deadline to provide the necessary documents related to the case. The defense team cited challenges in gathering information about the violence and instability in Mexico as obstacles to fulfilling their requirements. They must submit their documents by March 30, 2026, while the prosecution has until April 6, 2026, to respond.
Background on El Mayo Zambada
Ismael Zambada is the co-founder and historical leader of the Sinaloa Cartel. He pleaded guilty in August to two charges, including drug trafficking and money laundering. Zambada led the criminal organization from 1989 until 2024.
- Initial indictment contained 17 charges against him.
- After the plea agreement, he acknowledged his involvement in illicit activities.
- He faced accusations in 16 federal courts in the U.S. since 2009.
- Charges he accepted could lead to a life sentence.
Recent Developments
Zambada was arrested in July 2024 at Santa Teresa Airport in New Mexico. He was traveling with Joaquín Guzmán López, son of Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán. Zambada claims this was a setup to facilitate his arrest.
As the legal proceedings continue, the implications of Zambada’s case are significant, contributing to the broader narrative of drug trafficking and organized crime in both Mexico and the United States.
